Immunity boosters are gaining popularity as people continuously seek effective supplements to enhance their immune defenses against everything from common colds to the flu and other viral infections. If you are on a quest to strengthen your immune system, you might be interested to know more about Echinacea, a supplement derived from the coneflower. Known for its potential to boost immunity, Echinacea also offers a range of broader health benefits.
What is Echinacea?
Echinacea is a group of flowering plants that feature purple blooms, native to North America. Among its nine species, three of them, Echinacea purpurea, Echinacea angustifolia, and Echinacea pallida, have been particularly valued in traditional medicine for their natural ability to boost the body's defenses and promote healing. Before the invention of antibiotics, this powerful herb was a go-to remedy for a wide range of ailments, from infections and wounds to serious conditions like fever, syphilis, malaria, blood poisoning, and diphtheria.
This traditional herb remains popular as a dietary supplement today, thanks to studies highlighting its beneficial effects. Research has shown that Echinacea can help reduce inflammation, boost immunity, and even lower blood sugar levels, making it a valuable addition to modern wellness routines.
Benefits of Echinacea:
Immunity booster- Echinacea is known for enhancing the body's natural defense mechanisms, helping to reduce the frequency of illness. It is particularly effective in supporting the immune system to fend off colds, flu, and upper respiratory infections, making it a popular choice for maintaining overall health. The immune-boosting power comes from the chemicals in Echinacea that stimulate the production of white blood cells, which are crucial for fighting off infections.
A systematic review conducted in 2019 revealed that echinacea might have a preventative effect on the incidence of upper respiratory tract infections and its use is safe in the short term. A recent study published in the journal Antibiotics suggests that the use of Echinacea could safely reduce the need for antibiotics by preventing respiratory tract infections and their complications.
Reduces inflammation- While inflammation is a body's natural mechanism of defense against irritants like pathogens, damaged cells, or toxins, when this defense system goes into overdrive or lingers for too long, it can cause more harm than good. This is where Echinacea, known for its anti-inflammatory properties, comes into play.
Researchers suggest that Echinacea may be beneficial in treating various inflammation-related health conditions. Its potential uses include relieving swollen gums, soothing a sore throat, reducing skin inflammation, treating stomach issues, and reducing acne. Echinacea may also promote healing in slow-healing wounds and alleviate pain and inflammation associated with knee osteoarthritis.
Improves eczema and skin health- Echinacea's powerful anti-inflammatory properties make it a valuable ingredient in acne treatments, especially for those with mild to moderate acne. By calming the skin and reducing irritation, Echinacea helps soothe breakouts and minimize redness. It is also helpful in reducing oxidative stress, a key factor in skin aging, while also improving skin hydration.
Mood enhancer:
A recent study exploring the anxiety-relieving and mood-enhancing effects of Echinacea found that taking 40 to 80 milligrams of the extract daily for about six weeks can effectively improve symptoms of anxiety, showing similar results to placebo in adults with mild to moderate anxiety. However, Echinacea was found to be more effective than a placebo in alleviating symptoms of depression and enhancing overall emotional well-being.
Possible Side Effects:
While Echinacea offers a range of health benefits, it is important to be aware of potential side effects. Some individuals may experience an upset stomach, headache, or sore throat. Drowsiness, rash, and nausea can also occur, along with stomach pain, a general feeling of being unwell, and constipation.
Is Echinacea safe?
Although generally considered safe for most adults, Echinacea can cause liver injury in some individuals, so it is not recommended for those already on medications that affect the liver. People taking immunosuppressants should also avoid Echinacea, as it may interfere with their medication. This warning extends to individuals with tuberculosis, leukemia, diabetes, HIV or AIDS, and other autoimmune diseases, as well as those who have received organ transplants, because Echinacea could potentially disrupt the effectiveness of their treatments.
Here Are 25 Best Echinacea Supplements According To Reviews:
1. Traditional Medicinals' Organic Throat Coat
Soothe your throat and boost your immune system with Traditional Medicinals Organic Throat Coat Lemon Echinacea Tea. This caffeine-free blend combines sweet, silky, and lemony flavors with high-quality, ethically sourced herbs. Certified organic and Non-GMO, it's crafted with care, ensuring every sip supports your well-being. Enjoy the comforting taste and feel good knowing you are supporting sustainable practices. Each case includes three boxes, totaling 96 tea bags, perfect for keeping your throat happy all season long. Not recommended for children under 12.
2. Puritan's Pride Echinacea 400 mg
Support your immune system naturally with Puritan's Pride Echinacea 400 mg. This herbal supplement, rooted in centuries of tradition, is especially popular during seasonal changes. Crafted with the highest quality ingredients, it's free from artificial colors, flavors, preservatives, and common allergens like gluten, soy, and dairy. Each bottle contains 200 capsules, making it a reliable partner for your health and wellness.
3. Nature's Way Echinacea Purpurea Herb
Nature's Way Echinacea Purpurea Herb is designed to support immune health, offering 1,200 mg of Echinacea per three-capsule serving. This Non-GMO Project Verified supplement is both gluten-free and vegan, making it a clean choice for those seeking natural immune support. With over 50 years of experience, Nature's Way remains committed to harnessing the power of nature to promote wellness. Each bottle contains 180 capsules, free from artificial additives, making it a reliable option for those focused on natural health solutions. Adults are advised to take three capsules three times daily, preferably with food.
4. Horbäach Echinacea Extract Capsules 1300mg
Horbäach Echinacea Extract Capsules deliver a potent 1,300 mg of Echinacea per serving, providing powerful immune support. These vegan, Non-GMO capsules are crafted with a focus on purity and potency, ensuring a high-quality supplement you can trust. Free from gluten, wheat, soy, and artificial additives, this supplement is a clean choice for those seeking natural wellness. Backed by Horbäach's commitment to superior quality and laboratory testing, each bottle contains 300 capsules, offering a reliable and effective way to support your health.
5. Herb Pharm Certified Organic Super Echinacea
Herb Pharm's Certified Organic Super Echinacea Liquid Extract is expertly crafted to support a healthy immune system. This unique formula blends extracts from four different parts of the Echinacea purpurea plant—root, seed, leaf, and flower—each harvested at peak potency from Herb Pharm's Certified Organic farms. The liquid extract is rapidly absorbed, providing both short-term and long-term immune support. Non-GMO and gluten-free, Herb Pharm ensures herb potency through advanced High Performance Thin Layer Chromatography (HPTLC) analysis.
6. WishGarden Herbs Kick-Ass Immune Activator
WishGarden Herbs' Kick-Ass Immune Activator offers a potent blend of plant-based ingredients to bolster the body's natural defenses. This liquid immune support tincture, trusted for over 20 years, stands out for its rapid effectiveness, absorbing quickly into the body for immediate action. Formulated with organic and wild-harvested herbs like Echinacea, Goldenseal, and Yerba Santa, it provides a customizable and powerful immune response. Committed to sustainability, WishGarden ensures that every ingredient meets high standards, making this supplement a trusted ally for immune health.
7. Gaia Herbs Quick Defense
Gaia Herbs Quick Defense offers a powerful, fast-acting solution for immune support, designed to be used at the first sign of cold symptoms. This potent blend of echinacea, Black Elderberry, ginger, and Andrographis provides a natural boost to your immune system in convenient, purity-tested vegan capsules. Whether at home or on the go, these capsules offer an easy way to maintain your immune health. Made in North Carolina, USA, Quick Defense is gluten-free and crafted with high-quality, trusted ingredients.
8. Herbana Echinacea Extract
Herbana Echinacea Liquid Extract offers a potent and natural way to boost your immune system with its high-quality blend of Echinacea Angustifolia root, leaf, flower, and seed. This gluten-free, GMO-free, and additive-free supplement provides essential nutrients in a highly concentrated form. Just a single dropper, mixed with water or juice, delivers long-term immune support. Proudly made in the USA, this 90-day family-sized supply ensures you can maintain your well-being with ease and confidence.
9. Pure Synergy Rapid Rescue
Pure Synergy Rapid Rescue Organic Immune Support Capsules provide fast-acting protection with a powerful blend of nine herbal extracts, including echinacea, elderberry, olive leaf, and oregano, enhanced by Manuka honey. Designed for on-the-go defense, these capsules support robust immune health, particularly during travel, social gatherings, and the back-to-school season. Formulated with SuperPure extracts for potent benefits without harsh solvents, this supplement is Certified Organic, Non-GMO, and free from gluten, soy, and dairy, offering real ingredients you can trust daily.
10. Oregon's Wild Harvest Echinacea Organic Herbal Supplement
Oregon's Wild Harvest Echinacea Organic Herbal Supplement provides robust immune support with a potent blend of 800 mg of freshly milled, certified organic echinacea. Combining Echinacea purpurea tops and root with Echinacea angustifolia root, this supplement is designed to wake up your immune system and support your body's natural defenses. Manufactured in Redmond, OR, with a commitment to non-GMO, natural ingredients, these capsules are free from artificial additives and allergens, making them a pure and reliable choice for daily immune health.
11. Nature's Truth Echinacea Extract Capsules
Nature's Truth Echinacea Extract Capsules offer a potent 1,300 mg of echinacea per serving, harnessing the traditional herb's natural antioxidant properties. These vegan capsules are crafted with care, free from gluten, wheat, milk, lactose, soy, artificial sweeteners, and flavors, ensuring a pure and natural supplement. Backed by three generations of vitamin innovators, Nature's Truth is committed to delivering high-quality wellness products that you can trust, providing honest and transparent ingredients for your health.
12. HybridCR Rapid Immune Boost Defense
HybridCR Rapid Immune Boost Defense is a pharmacist-formulated, all-natural supplement designed to quickly support your immune system. With powerful antioxidants and herbal ingredients like echinacea, Andrographis, Panax Ginseng, zinc, and selenium, this supplement offers both daily immune wellness and rapid immune boosts when needed. Ideal for home or travel, HybridCR provides on-demand immune support in a non-GMO, allergen-free formula that is vegetarian and free from common allergens like dairy, soy, and gluten. Formulated by clinical pharmacist Dr. Jason DuBois, HybridCR ensures high standards of efficacy and safety.
13. Nature's Answer Echinacea Extract
Nature's Answer Echinacea Extract offers powerful immune support with a super-concentrated formula made from 1,000 mg of pure Echinacea extract. Recognized for its health benefits by Native Americans and early settlers, this alcohol-free supplement is designed to promote a healthy immune system year-round. Certified gluten-free, non-GMO, and Kosher, it provides a trusted, holistic approach to wellness, ensuring high standards and purity in every dose.
14. Frontier Co-op Dried Echinacea
Frontier Co-op Dried Echinacea Angustifolia Root offers a premium, certified organic choice for herbal tea and remedies. Expertly cut and sifted, this 8oz package of echinacea root, also known as coneflower, delivers the pure benefits of this North American native plant. Brew a soothing tea by adding 1/2 teaspoon of the root to a tea infuser, pouring boiling water over it, and steeping for 3-5 minutes. Enjoy its cooling, spicy flavor and invigorating aroma, perfect for natural wellness and culinary uses.
15. Carlyle Echinacea Goldenseal Capsules
Carlyle Echinacea Goldenseal Capsules combine two powerful herbs into one effective formula. Featuring a potent proprietary blend equivalent to 450 mg of Echinacea and Goldenseal extracts, these vegetarian capsules provide a synergistic duo for immune support and wellness. Made with non-GMO, gluten-free ingredients and free from common allergens and artificial additives, this supplement offers a pure and trusted option for health. With a 240-day supply, Carlyle delivers quality and value, reflecting their dedication to premium, honest supplements for your healthy living journey.
16. Swanson Echinacea & Goldenseal Liquid
Swanson Echinacea & Goldenseal Liquid offers a rapid and effective way to bolster your body's defenses. This fast-acting liquid blend combines goldenseal with two forms of echinacea, providing immediate support for a robust immune system. Ideal for those who prefer liquid supplements over pills, it adheres to vegan, vegetarian, and non-GMO standards, reflecting a commitment to quality and natural wellness. With a long history of use by Native American herbalists, this formulation continues to be a popular choice for enhancing immune health.
17. Esberitox Supercharged Echinacea
Esberitox Supercharged Echinacea Immune Support harnesses the power of four herbs to provide robust immune system support from day one. Clinically tested for its effectiveness, this natural, drug-free supplement combines two types of Echinacea with wild indigo root and purple coneflower to enhance immune health for the whole family. Made in Germany, it offers a potent, herbal solution for maintaining and boosting your body's defenses.
18. Nutrition Restore Echinacea Goldenseal Capsules
Nutrition Restore Echinacea Goldenseal Capsules offer comprehensive immune support with a potent 1455 mg blend of organic, plant-based ingredients. This vegan supplement combines Echinacea purpurea, Echinacea angustifolia, black elderberry, chaga mushroom, reishi mushroom, and other powerful botanicals known for their antioxidant and detoxifying properties. Free from fillers and additives, these easy-to-swallow capsules provide a two-month supply of high-quality immune support. Proudly made in the U.S. with rigorous quality control, it ensures a natural, gluten-free, and non-GMO formula for optimal wellness.
19. Wild & Organic Echinacea Drops
Wild & Organic Echinacea Drops offer a natural and effective way to support your immune system with each serving delivering 680 mg of echinacea herb. This alcohol-free tincture uses vegetable glycerin for a pleasant, naturally sweet taste without added sugars. Made with vegan, non-GMO ingredients and free from artificial colors, it provides a gentle and digestible option for immune defense. With 168 servings per 4 fl. oz. bottle, this supplement offers a 56-day supply when taken three times a day, ensuring lasting support for your wellness.
20. NOW Supplements, Echinacea & Goldenseal Glycerite
NOW Supplements Echinacea & Goldenseal Glycerite combines the time-honored benefits of these herbs into a convenient liquid form. Historically used by the Plains Indians and embraced worldwide, this glycerite offers immune support with each serving. Simply take 1 to 2 droppersful in tea or water 1 to 3 times daily as needed. With GMP quality assurance and packaged by a family-owned company in the USA since 1968, it ensures a reliable and high-quality supplement for your health.
21. Nature's Bounty Echinacea
Nature's Bounty Echinacea Herbal Supplement provides a potent 400 mg of Echinacea per capsule, supporting immune health with a time-tested herb. With a history dating back to the early 20th century American Eclectics, this supplement continues to be a trusted choice for holistic wellness. Each bottle contains 100 non-GMO, gluten-free capsules, reflecting Nature's Bounty's dedication to quality, safety, and scientific research. This supplement is crafted to support overall health while maintaining purity and potency standards.
22. A.Vogel Echinaforce Echinacea Tablets
A.Vogel Echinaforce Echinacea Tablets are designed to boost your immune system and alleviate cold and flu symptoms. Each tablet contains a potent extract of fresh Echinacea purpurea herb and root, providing effective immune support. With 6.2 mg of Echinaforce concentrate per tablet, equivalent to 270 mg of whole fresh plant or 60 mg of whole dried plant, it offers a robust formulation. For adults and the elderly, the recommended dose is 2 tablets two to three times daily, while children aged 6-12 should take 1 tablet two to three times daily.
23. Nutricost Echinacea 800mg Capsules
Nutricost Echinacea 800 mg provides a potent dose of echinacea with each serving, delivering 800 mg per two-capsule dose. This supplement comes in a large 240-capsule bottle, offering 120 servings. It is designed to be vegetarian-friendly, non-GMO, and gluten-free, making it suitable for a wide range of dietary preferences. Made in a GMP-compliant, FDA-registered facility, it ensures high quality and safety standards. For optimal results, take 2 capsules with 12-16 oz of water or as directed by your physician.
24. ChildLife Essentials Liquid Echinacea
ChildLife Essentials Liquid Echinacea offers a natural boost to your child's immune system, making it an excellent choice for kids from as young as six months through their teenage years. This gluten-free and allergen-free supplement is crafted with all-natural ingredients and features a delicious orange flavor that children will love. Each 1-ounce bottle, available in packs of two, is filled with a carefully researched blend of echinacea extracts renowned for their immune-supporting benefits. Developed by Dr. Murray Clarke, a pioneer in pediatric vitamins, this supplement is designed to integrate seamlessly into your child's daily routine, providing reliable immune support as they grow. For optimal results, follow the suggested use and make it a part of your child's health regimen.
25. Source Naturals Wellness Herbal Resistance Liquid
Source Naturals Wellness Herbal Resistance Liquid Formula is expertly crafted to bolster your immune system with a potent blend of herbs, including Echinacea, Coptis, and Yin Chiao. Each 4-fluid-ounce bottle is designed to provide robust immune support, with a suggested dosage of 1/2 teaspoon three times daily, equating to approximately 45 drops. This liquid formula is suitable for vegetarians and contains no yeast, dairy, egg, gluten, corn, or wheat, nor does it include sugar, starch, salt, or artificial additives. However, it does contain soy. Source Naturals, founded in 1982 by CEO Ira Goldberg, has a long-standing reputation for supporting optimal health with quality supplements. Manufactured in Scotts Valley, CA, this product adheres to the stringent Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMPs) established by the FDA, ensuring a trustworthy and reliable option for immune system support.
